In a sweeping enforcement drive aimed at improving safety standards in paying guest (PG) accommodations, the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) on Thursday inspected 321 PG facilities within the central city limits. The action follows a tragic cylinder blast at a PG in Kundalahalli that claimed one life and left two others injured, raising serious concerns over safety lapses in such establishments.

Focus on safety, hygiene and licences

The inspections were carried out across parts of CV Raman Nagar and Shanthinagar Assembly constituencies, based on directions from the GBA Central Commissioner. Teams led by the health department, with support from the revenue department and local enforcement units, examined PGs for compliance with basic hygiene, safety norms and licensing requirements.

Officials said the drive was initiated amid increasing complaints about unhygienic kitchens, inadequate fire safety measures and unauthorised operations, particularly in PGs housing students and migrant workers.

What the inspection teams verified

During the checks, officials assessed the availability of clean drinking water, overall cleanliness of kitchens, sanitary conditions of toilets and general hygiene standards. Compliance with fire safety norms, installation of CCTV cameras and possession of valid Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) certificates in facilities serving food were also verified.

All PG operators were issued awareness-cum-compliance notices, directing them to rectify shortcomings within seven days to continue operations.

Two PGs sealed, fines imposed

Of the 321 PGs inspected, two were sealed immediately after officials found gross hygiene violations, including unsafe kitchen setups and poor sanitation. Fines totalling ₹58,000 were imposed on multiple PG operators for various lapses.

Resistance faced during checks

In Shanthinagar, inspection teams reportedly faced resistance at Garden PG, where owners allegedly denied entry for nearly 20 minutes. Police assistance was sought, after which officials found the premises operating without a valid trade licence and running an unauthorised kitchen on the terrace. A notice was issued warning that the PG would be sealed from next month if violations are not corrected.

GBA officials said the drive is part of an ongoing effort to regulate Bengaluru’s rapidly expanding PG sector and prevent avoidable tragedies.